Asphalt needs time to cure after installation, as it is a flexible pavement. If driven on prematurely, the weight of vehicles can cause ripples or bumps in the surface. The asphalt will gradually harden and level out over time. In cold climates, ice and snow may form on the surface before it has cured completely; this could lead to major damage if traveled on.
Read more as we’ll talk about this topic on new asphalt driveway how long before driving on it and get the information you need for the new driveway outside your house.
What Do Experts Say About This Matter
Asphalt driveways can be a great addition to your home, providing a durable and weather-resistant surface for parking and driving. However, like any new surface, there are some things you need to know before driving on it.
Most experts recommend waiting at least a week before driving on a new asphalt driveway. During this time, the sealant or coating on the surface will harden and cure, ensuring that your drive is protected from the elements. Driving on it too soon can damage the surface and lead to premature wear and tear.
So if you’ve just had an asphalt driveway installed, be sure to wait until at least a week has passed before hitting the road. This will give the coating time to cure and harden properly, ensuring that your new driveway is up to the task of supporting both you and your vehicles.
To tell if it’s fully cured, you can do a few simple tests.
One thing to look for is how the surface feels. If it’s still soft and spongy, then it’s not fully cured yet. Another test is to see how well the driveway has bonded with the underlying surface. To do this, pour some water onto the driveway and see if it beads up or absorbs into the surface. If it beads up, then the driveway is likely cured. If it absorbs into the surface, then there may still be some curing taking place.
What If You Can’t Avoid Driving On A Newly Installed Asphalt Driveway
If you can’t avoid driving on a newly installed asphalt driveway, there are a few things you can do to help protect the surface:
- Drive slowly and avoid braking or turning sharply
- Try to use a different route, if possible
- If you have to drive on the driveway, try to go straight and avoid turning
- If you have to turn, go as slowly as possible
- Don’t park on the driveway if you can avoid it
Ideally, though, it’s best to wait until the asphalt has had time to cure and cool before driving or parking on it. Depending on the weather conditions and how thickly the asphalt was poured, this can take anywhere from a few days to a week. After that point, the asphalt should be able to handle normal driving and parking without suffering any damage.
If you’re in a hurry to use the driveway, always err on the side of caution and wait until it’s been at least a few days since the asphalt was poured. Spending a little extra time waiting will help ensure that your new asphalt driveway remains beautiful and functional for years to come.
What About Parking
If you park on your driveway before it has fully cured, you could cause damage that will require repairs. The asphalt needs time to cool and harden so that it can support the weight of a car. If you drive or park on it before it has had time to cure, the weight of the car could cause the asphalt to crack, sink or heave. In addition, if oil or gas leaks from your car onto the driveway, it could stain or damage the new surface.
What To Do To Protect Your Asphalt Driveway
In addition to waiting until the asphalt has cooled, it’s also important to sealcoat your driveway as soon as possible. This helps protect the surface from damage caused by UV rays, extreme temperatures, and moisture. A quality sealcoating can also extend the life of your asphalt driveway for many years. Sealing should be done at least once every two to three years and should be done by qualified professionals like Springfield’s trusted paving company, Boswell’s Paving.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your new asphalt driveway will stay in good condition for many years to come. Waiting until it’s cooled before driving on it and making sure to sealcoat regularly are key steps in maintaining a strong and durable surface.
